Compare breeds
Shih Tzu vs Yorkshire Terrier
Shih Tzu
Long
Yorkshire Terrier
Long
Choose the Shih Tzu if you want…
- a family with children
- a home with other pets
- a quieter companion
- a calmer companion
Choose the Yorkshire Terrier if you want…
- an active companion for long walks and play
Side by side
| Trait | Shih Tzu | Yorkshire Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Toy |
| Weight | 4–7.5 kg (9–17 lb) | 2–3.5 kg (4–8 lb) |
| Height | 20–28 cm (8–11 in) | 18–23 cm (7–9 in) |
| Life span | 10–16 years | 13–16 years |
| Origin | China and Tibet | England |
| Energy | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Trainability | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Suits a flat | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Grooming needs | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 2/5 | 4/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Shih Tzu or the Yorkshire Terrier?
The Shih Tzu — typically about 2.1 times the weight. Shih Tzu: 4–7.5 kg (9–17 lb); Yorkshire Terrier: 2–3.5 kg (4–8 lb).
Which lives longer, the Shih Tzu or the Yorkshire Terrier?
The Yorkshire Terrier, on average. Shih Tzu: 10–16 years; Yorkshire Terrier: 13–16 years.
Is the Shih Tzu or the Yorkshire Terrier better with children?
The Shih Tzu scores higher in our profiles (4 vs 3 out of 5). Always supervise young children with any pet.
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Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts